Late blight found in PA

A devastating disease that can affect tomatoes and potatoes has been found over the weekend in western Lancaster County. This is the fungus that can cause Late Blight which was responsible for the potato famine in Ireland in the 1840's.

Fortunately for potato growers, the strain of the fungus that was found this weekend is only known to affect tomatoes. It does have the potential to seriously affect the availablity of fresh, locally grown tomatoes this summer. It is somewhat unusual for the disease to show up so early in the growing season.

gypsy moth love blue spruce

In the last few years gypsy moth caterpillars have been devastating area blue spruce trees. We often think of gypsy moth as an oak pest, but I have seen more on blue spruce than oak lately. The caterpillar is active now, it has two rows of dots on its back. The dots closest to the head are blue, and the dots further down the row are cinnamon colored.

Clover mites are here!

We have had several calls this week about tiny crimson-red creatures running around on windowsills, stone walls or walkways. These are probably Clover mites which have been very active this week in the Lehigh Valley. In the spring they can become a nuisance to homeowners.

Do you need limestone?

In many parts of the country, you can assume that an application of limestone on lawns and gardens will be needed every year or so. It's just part of the routine.

Not so in Southeastern Pennsylvania! Many of our soils already have plenty of calcium, and a high pH (a measure of acidity or alkalinity). Since most of the plants that you put into your gardens do better in soil with a slightly to moderately acid soil, applying limestone would hurt, rather than help.

Master Gardeners are volunteers trained by Penn State Extension Horticulture Educators. Once they complete their training, they cooperate with service agencies and community groups on a wide range of gardening projects. Their talents and energies are directed toward providing a link between their community and Penn State Cooperative Extension and Outreach.